I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to attend college. On the docket for the Supreme Court is a case that challenges the affirmative action policy of the University of Texas in Austin. In Fisher v. University of Texas, a student, Abigail Fisher, sued the university after it rejected her application in 2008. She claims the university rejected her, in part, because she is white. The school defends its affirmative action policy. While I have always believed in affirmative action to reverse years of discrimination, now that the US population is becoming 50% or more minorities, perhaps it is time to end this policy.

I have long had an idea that all students should be able to attend college if they want. I think we need a type of universal service similar to the draft from years ago. In my plan, anyone could receive a loan to attend college based on financial need, not merit. Of course, they would have to maintain some level of performance like a B or C average. The loan would cover all costs. I helped to put two of my children through college, so I know how expensive it can be. Scholarships help, but room and board can also be very expensive. I have also witnessed the hardship caused by trying to pay back the loans after graduation. Under my plan, upon graduation, the students would have payback options:

1. Pay back the loan in full or over time like a regular college loan.2. Serve in the military for a set number of years (similar to ROTC). This could include the Peace Corps. After a term of service, the loan would be considered paid. The military already has a good college savings program for soldiers.

3. Service the US government. For example, if there is a need for a teacher in Alaska, or Guam, or wherever, the graduate would serve for a set number of years for a set salary. It would include teaching or working in urban schools-wherever we need people. It might even include fighting wildfires, floods, and disaster relief working for FEMA. Again, after a set term of service, the loans would be considered paid. It will be interesting to see how the Supreme Court rules on this case.